Merging two mature flocks

[Ahmed_D]

Hello people, after owning my first flock for a couple of months I decided to merge a new flock with my first flock which I did last week, but my first flock stay together and the second flock stay together in the coop or when free ranging, when will they be 'one' flock??
Thx

 

[hannahsflock]

Usually it takes a while for them to sort themselves out, but they do eventually. The new ones will stay on the outskirts for a while, but they will end up merging in the end.

 

[Mrs. K]

Cold weather, or when they all start laying. It is not unusual to have sub flocks in a flock.

 

[Flaisure]

I need help.... I keep trying to merge my babies in with my 5 older hens. I have 3 that are sooo mean to them. Literally ripping feathers out of them. I've tried everything. Please help

 

[pennyJo1960]

maybe hold 3 mean ones in another pen then after the three are comfortable with others after a day or so put the mean ones back lowers them on the totem pole

 

[Mrs. K]

What I found very effective was a safe place for the chicks, with a shelter in the run. A one way gate, where the chicks could come out, be with the chickens, but upon getting harassed could escape to safety. The openings were big enough for the chicks, too small for the hens. Mine were integrated by 4 weeks, I used a lattice panel. This allows the chicks to decide when they are ready to venture forth, and when they have had enough, and take a time out.

 

[Flaisure]

What I found very effective was a safe place for the chicks, with a shelter in the run. A one way gate, where the chicks could come out, be with the chickens, but upon getting harassed could escape to safety. The openings were big enough for the chicks, too small for the hens. Mine were integrated by 4 weeks, I used a lattice panel. This allows the chicks to decide when they are ready to venture forth, and when they have had enough, and take a time out.

I know I said babies but they are almost 18 weeks and are about the same size.

 

[Flaisure]

maybe hold 3 mean ones in another pen then after the three are comfortable with others after a day or so put the mean ones back lowers them on the totem pole

That's a good idea. I was thinking that but didn't know how it would turn out. I think I may try that. Thank you so much

 

[pennyJo1960]

your very welcome hope it works usually will put them in their place